RV parks near Henderson, Texas provide accommodations for both short-term travelers and extended-stay guests. The area's pine forest terrain creates natural barriers between many sites, offering privacy at select campgrounds. Winter temperatures typically remain mild enough for comfortable camping year-round, with average January lows around 35°F and summer highs frequently exceeding 95°F.
What to do
Swimming in spring-fed waters: Camp Tonkawa Springs RV Park and Campground offers a unique natural swimming area. "This is a pretty setting with a spring fed pond for summer swimming. There's 2 rec rooms for group gatherings, complete with kitchens," notes one visitor. The bright blue water provides relief during hot Texas summers.
Antique hunting: Antique Capital RV Park positions campers near Gladewater's numerous antique shops. "Great spot if you love antiquing! Gladewater has many, many, many antique shops," reports one camper. The park provides a central base for exploring the region's vintage collections.
Scenic views: Lookout Mountain RV Park offers panoramic vistas across East Texas. "This RV park sits atop of a historic state landmark, Loves Lookout Mountain, just north of Jacksonville Texas. This park has the best view in East Texas," writes one reviewer. The elevated position provides excellent photography opportunities.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Shallow Creek RV Park receives consistently positive feedback for cleanliness. "This is our second year at Shallow Creek. The staff are always friendly and helpful. The grounds, laundry and shower rooms are clean and well kept," writes one repeat visitor. Another notes the "exceptionally clean" conditions.
Level parking sites: Many campgrounds feature concrete pads, though levelness varies. "Hardly any leveling" was required at Shallow Creek according to one camper. At Carthage RV Campground, "Sites are perfectly level and concrete," though they note "sites toward the front seem pretty close together, but sites further from the road are spread out more."
Water recreation: Stillwater RV Resort features multiple water attractions. "They had a bunch of activities for the holiday weekend which were fun! Duck races on two days, firework show (very good and free), bingo, chalk contest, find the flags, etc!" notes a Memorial Day weekend visitor. Another camper appreciated "Lazy river, adult-only swim up bar, playground, full service on-site restaurant/bar, coffee shop."
What you should know
Arrival time restrictions: Some campgrounds maintain strict arrival policies. One Camp Tonkawa visitor reported being told they "close at 7 and you can't come in after 7." Plan accordingly when traveling from distant locations.
Hookup placement: Sewer connections at several parks require extended hoses. At Carthage RV Campground, "Spaces are extra long, however made for a 5th wheel. If in class A with a tow, will have to unhook if you don't have 25-30 foot long hoses."
Leveling requirements: Despite concrete pads at many locations, some sites require adjustment. At Stillwater RV Resort, "You will need a little side to side leveling for many of the sites," according to one camper who otherwise enjoyed their stay.
Cell service variations: Signal strength differs throughout the region. At Camp Tonkawa, "Cell phone service here is almost non existent. We have sprint service and have one bar, if we are outside in certain areas. Would not recommend staying here if you work remotely."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for children: Several parks feature kid-friendly aquatic options. At Stillwater RV Resort, "Our son did the WiBit inflatable obstacle course and LOVED it," though note this carries an additional fee.
Wildlife encounters: Camp Tonkawa Springs RV Park and Campground offers unique animal interactions. "The best part is the deer that will walk right up to you that you can hand feed," reports one family. Children often enjoy these close wildlife encounters.
Playground facilities: Look for campgrounds with designated play areas. Shallow Creek RV Park includes "play area" amenities according to visitor reports, providing recreation options beyond swimming pools.
Bug preparation: Insects can be problematic at certain locations. One Camp Tonkawa visitor warned, "The flies are horrendous, and so are the ants." Pack appropriate repellents and protective clothing.
Tips from RVers
Reservations recommended: During holiday periods, secure spots early. "We got here at about 3 pm on Friday and were greeted by a security guard who after getting our wristbands for the weekend escorted us to our site," reports a Memorial Day visitor to Stillwater RV Resort.
Extension cords and hoses: Many RV parks in the Henderson area have hookup placements requiring additional equipment. "Make sure you bring a lot of sewer hose! We had our 20ft and had to go to Walmart to get an extension, they put it nearly at the front of the site!" notes a Stillwater RV Resort camper.
Pool amenities: Pop's Place RV Park offers basic accommodations while some nearby facilities provide extensive aquatic options. At Stillwater, "There isn't a lot of seating or shade. I did see people bring camp chairs and just setting up where they could. They do have cabanas for rent."
Extra fees awareness: Budget for additional costs at certain resorts. "One downside is they don't allow outside food or drinks," notes a Stillwater visitor. Another adds, "Come ready to spend money!"
